For the past five years, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has provided Dreamers with the ability to go to school and work without fear of deportation. The President’s recent action to end DACA erases the path for these students to reach the American Dream. Congress can—and must—address the issue.

Nearly 800,000 individuals across America now have temporary protection from deportation because of DACA.1 Ninety-seven percent of them are either in school or employed. One-fifth are enrolled in institutions of higher education. Another third are in high school and considering their options for postsecondary education and training. And 5 percent of DACA students already have completed their bachelor’s degree, with many more on track to do so.2

These students are an integral part of our communities and our education system. They are just as deserving of opportunities to access higher education as all other students. It is immoral for us as a country to turn our back on these individuals, many of whom have never known any country but the United States.

Ending DACA also is unwise from an economic standpoint. DACA will increase the number of individuals with a postsecondary degree or credential, thus increasing the number of people who are prepared for the workforce and to contribute to our nation’s prosperity.

Congress is coequal to the Executive branch in our federal government. As Members, you can take moral leadership and provide DACA recipients with relief from fears of deportation. You can ensure that the doors leading to opportunity and the American Dream remain open for all people.
We call upon you, immediately, to take up and pass the Dream Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would offer protection to these young people and allow them to take part in our economy and society. That is the only appropriate response to President Trump’s announcement.

Our higher education system is stronger because of DACA. Our economy will be stronger because of DACA. The future of our country will be stronger because of the action you take on DACA. We urge you to work swiftly to protect DACA recipients.